Thousands To Gather For Annual Buffalo Roundup

Thousands of spectators from across the world are expected to get a taste of the Old West when they descend on Custer State Park for the 47th annual Buffalo Roundup.

About 1,300 bison will thunder across the prairie early Monday to be herded into corrals. Organizers say the goal is to maintain a balance of bison and rangeland forage. Some of the herded animals will be sold at a November auction.

The 1,000 remaining buffalo will be sorted. Newcomers will be branded and vaccinated, and cows will be checked for pregnancy.

The event drew nearly 14,000 spectators in 2011. Organizers expect a similar turnout Monday. Entry to the park is free for the event.